Embassy of the United States La Paz, Bolivia

What is the lowest TOEFL score required?
The lowest TOEFL accepted is 577 in the written version, 233 in the computer-based version, or 91 in the IBT.

Is work experience necessary to apply for a Fulbright scholarship?
It would be to your advantage, but it is not a must. However, it is required of applicants to the Fulbright Faculty Development Scholarship.

Is it required to have a nationwide-accredited degree to apply?
Yes, it is. It is necessary that you have a nationwide-accredited degree when you submit your documents.

Is it necessary that the letter of interest and attached documents be in English?
Yes, it is necessary.

How important is my letter of interest and study objectives?
They are very important for they reflect the clarity of the objectives and academic goals you want to pursue through the Fulbright Program. There is no specific format for the letter of interest or the letters of recommendation. It is recommended, however, that the letter of interest is no longer than two pages.

Do I need to be admitted into a U.S. university to apply for a Fulbright scholarship?
No, it is not necessary. Cooperating agencies like the Institute of International Education (IIE) and LASPAU, are responsible for placing and supervising foreign student grantees in the United States.

Can I choose the university in the U.S.?
If you are selected to receive a grant, you can propose up to four (4) universities, but the Fulbright Program, through the institutions that administer it, reserves the right to place you in a university suitable to your academic goals, especially if you are not admitted into any of the universities you propose.

What happens next, after I submit my application?
Your documents will be reviewed by the Fulbright Program. If you are pre-selected you will be called for an interview. Otherwise, you will be notified through a letter. This process takes between 3 to 4 months from the moment the public announcements for the scholarships are released.

How long does the second selection take after the interview?
From 2 to 3 weeks.

Do I have to take any other tests?
Depending on the field of study, you may have to take the GRE or GMAT. Applicants for a Fulbright Faculty Development scholarship must take the PAEP, which is an English and general knowledge test.

Does the Fulbright Program cover all areas of study?
All but two: medicine and odontology.

Is there an age limit to apply?
No, there is not. Nevertheless, the Program seeks to send professionals that, upon their return to Bolivia, are able to contribute with the knowledge and expertise gained for as long as possible as active professionals.

Can I remain in the U.S. after finishing my studies?
No. All Fulbright scholars are subject to internal regulations—Section 212-E—of the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) and to a signed agreement with the Fulbright Program, whereby they agree to come back to the country and stay for at least two years before returning to the U.S. If starting a PhD Degree, deferment of this commitment is allowed until the completion of the PhD.

May I take my family with me?
The Fulbright scholarship does not fund dependents. Dependent costs must be defrayed by the scholar from personal funds: at least $500 per month for the first dependent, $300 for the second dependent, $150 for the third one, and approximately $150 per month per dependent for health insurance.

I have already studied in the U.S. Can I apply?
Yes, you can. However, preference will be given to those applicants with no academic experience in the U.S.

I am not Bolivian. Can I apply?
No. You have to apply in your own country.

I am Bolivian, but I do not live in Bolivia. Can I apply?
You must reside in your own country to apply.

Is the quality of the letters and documents submitted of any importance?
Absolutely, yes.

Will rejected applicants receive their documents?
No, they will not. That is why we request photocopies of all academic and personal accreditation documents. Also, simple and short resumes are recommended.

Is there flexibility for the submission of the TOEFL scores?

Yes there is but it should not exceed 30 days. Please explain the submission delay when applying.